Leonard Ravenhill (1907-1994) was a famous English Christian evangelist known for his emphasis on prayer and revival. He is also known for his many powerful and witty quotations. Two quotes that really struck a chord with me are: “My main ambition in life is to be on the devil’s most wanted list.”1 And: “Smart men walked on the moon, daring men walked on the ocean floor, but wise men walk with God.”2
While smart men walked on the moon, I believe that all Christians can exhibit this trait when they are well versed in the Bible. President Theodore Roosevelt said it well: “A thorough knowledge of the Bible is worth more than a college education.”3
And while daring men walked on the ocean floor, many Christian missionaries, have over the centuries risked their very lives proclaiming the gospel message in many hostile lands throughout the globe. For many missionaries disease and hostile inhabitants are common place in many countries. These daring men and women often risk their very lives in spreading the good news.
But when it comes to exhibiting wisdom Christians are in a class of their own. For you see while most people value worldly wisdom there is nothing that can compare with the godly wisdom that can accrue to those men and women who walk with God. And when you walk with God and obey His will you indeed become wise.
Godly wisdom is so special for many reasons. As one read’s (Proverbs 3) we see that true wisdom brings a treasure trove of benefits to those who make seeking it their life’s pursuit. Just a few of these benefits are listed below.
For example, wisdom will prolong your life. (Proverbs 3:2) states: “For length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you.” As with all proverbs these are not automatic sayings that will always be fulfilled. However, all things equal, they have a greater likelihood that they will come true. Wisdom here is keeping God’s commandments and when we do we will live a longer life because we will handle stress better, have more peace, and a host of other life-prolonging attitudes and behaviors.
Wisdom will also bring you prosperity. (Proverbs 3:10) states: “So your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.” This verse comes right after verse 9 which says to “honor the Lord from your wealth…” True wisdom knows that God is the source of all blessings, including financial ones. And wisdom knows to give back to the Lord and you will be blessed. It is a spiritual law that when you give you get blessed.
In addition, wisdom will win you favor with God and man. (Proverbs 3:4) states: “And so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man.” Godly wisdom was something Solomon asked God for so he could rightly govern his people and as a result God was so pleased with his request that He added wealth and so much more. And while man may not always agree with someone who possesses true wisdom, he usually will respect you because your decisions will be based on the soundest judgment possible.
Finally, wisdom will bring happiness. (Proverbs 3:18) states: “She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who retain her.” When you have real godly wisdom, you will have a great chance to live a longer life, to prosper, and to find favor with God and man. With all of these benefits it’s no wonder you can feel happy.
No wonder Leonard Ravenhill said that wise men walk with God!
1 53 Leonard Ravenhill Quotes | ChristianQuotes.info
2 102 Leonard Ravenhill Quotes from English Christian Evangelist
3 W. SCOTT LAMB: Theodore Roosevelt’s famous quote about college – Washington Times